Hello,
I work out of Saskatoon, SK. I attended the Fragile Infant Feeding
Institute in Edmonton in May 2012 and it sounded as though the
presenters were advocating for moving away from commercial thickeners
for liquids, particularly in the infant population.
This was not a main topic of discussion, so I wanted to look into
further information. I have reviewed three different products that I am
aware of: Simply Thick, Thicken Up, and Thicken Up Clear. All have
warnings regarding Pediatric use. Simply Thick products
are not recommended for children under 3 years of age. Simply Thick is
not recommended for premature infants, infants under 1 year, or children
with a history of NEC. I found this info on the respective
manufacturer's websites.
What are feeding therapists using for commercial thickeners in very
young children? Or are therapists recommending food based thickening
more often (such as rice cereal, yogurt, etc). I realize that it is a
cost/benefit analysis; however, I am very concerned
about recommending off-label use.
Any input would be very warmly welcomed.
Thank you in advance,
Mandy Madsen, BScOT, Reg (SK)
Feeding Clinic Coordinator
Days of Work: Tues and Thurs
655-1274
I prefer to use food although I have used the commercial thickeners in a limited way in the past. Most parents seem to prefer using food in my experience. Heather McKenzie
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